A lothas changed in the Nissan Maxima for the 2000 model year. The four-door sedan is larger, more comfortable and more powerful. It is quick off the mark, with 0-100 km/h acceleration of just 8.2 seconds.

Maxima's handling feels stable, safe and secure both on the road and on the track. In fact, it inspires driving confidence under all sorts of road conditions, even loose gravel. The engine -- a 222-hp, 3.0-litre V-6 -- has been highly rated by experts as one of the best there is. The transmission shifts seamlessly around town and in highway passing mode. In fact, when it comes to handling, performance and appearance, there is little to complain about.

Inside, the instruments are easy to view, the power-operated seats are quite comfortable, and there is plenty of room fore and aft. One small quibble is that the radio volume knob and temperature control knob are similar in appearance, and it's easy to mistakenly crank up the heat instead of the audio volume.

The GXE model we tested is very well-equipped, with four-speed automatic, ABS, keyless entry, power locks and windows, cruise control and more, all for a reasonable $31,600 as tested (this model starts at $28,590).

The Maxima won in two categories at AJAC's 2000 Car of the Year competition -- the GXE model is the Best New Family Car (Over $25,000) and the feature-laden $34,800 Maxima SE is the Best New Sports Sedan.